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Drivers, it's time for "Winter Weather – Get it Together"
Snow-and-ice safety campaign introducing public to "Orange Crush” and “Scoopy Do"
SPRINGFIELD – With the first snowflakes of the season falling in recent days, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and Illinois Tollway are reminding the driving public that now is the ideal time for “Winter Weather – Get it Together.”
“At IDOT, we spend the entire year getting ready for snow-and-ice season. Our top priority is making sure our roads are safe for the motoring public, but we do ask the motoring public to do its part as well and get prepared,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Make sure your vehicle is in a safe, operating condition. Winter weather can change quickly so be prepared to reduce speeds and increase driving distances at all times. And please share the roads with our snow-and-ice teams – don’t crowd the plow.”
Throughout the coming months of cold weather and adverse conditions, motorists should practice basic winter driving skills and build extra time into their schedules. As part of the “Winter Weather – Get it Together” campaign, travelers are encouraged to follow these simple guidelines:
• Bookmark GettingAroundIllinois.com to check travel conditions 24/7. This year’s winter road conditions map will feature more local, more precise reporting information.
• Wear a seat belt. It’s the law in Illinois. And it’s your best defense in a crash.
• Drop it and drive. Put down the mobile devices – it, too, is the law.
• Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary. If you do have to drive, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your route. Familiarize yourself with public transportation options.
• Slow down. Slower speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering and slower braking are required throughout the winter.
• Don’t crowd the plow. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see
them, but they may not see you. Any plow that’s hit is one less resource available to clear the roads.
• Watch out for black ice. A road may appear clear but can be treacherous.
• Be especially careful when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shaded areas. All are prone to icing.
• Prepare an emergency kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit.
• Carry a cell phone and a car charger in case of emergency.
• Give them distance. Obey the Move Over Law by slowing down and changing lanes when approaching ANY stopped vehicle with flashing lights.
“Winter weather causes additional dangers to the men and women of the Illinois State Police on patrol to protect and serve all motorists,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “In snowy and icy conditions, please refrain from driving unless it is essential. If you must get on the road, remember to adjust your driving to the weather and road conditions. Winter road conditions are unpredictable and a crash could happen at any moment. The fewer drivers on the road, the fewer crashes and the safer everyone will be.
“If you approach an emergency vehicle with its lights activated or a disabled vehicle with flashing lights, please slow down and move over. Our goal is to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”
For the upcoming winter, IDOT will have almost 1,800 trucks available for deployment to plow nearly 16,000 miles of roads statewide, the equivalent of driving from New York to Los Angeles and back almost three times. Last year, IDOT spread more than 522,000 tons of salt statewide. This winter, salt domes throughout the state are close to capacity, with more than 445,000 tons on hand, almost twice the weight of the Willis Tower.
Two plows making their debut in the IDOT fleet this winter are Orange Crush and Scoopy Do – the winning entries from the inaugural “Name the Snowplow” contest held at the Illinois State Fair. The names were among 700 entries submitted by visitors to the IDOT tent, with the finalists chosen through a statewide employee contest. The plows will be used primarily in IDOT’s District 6, which encompasses Adams, Brown, Cass, Christian, Hancock, Logan, Macoupin, Mason, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, Pike, Sangamon, Schuyler and Scott counties.
The Illinois Tollway mobilizes a fleet of 196 snowplows during winter storms and this year has stockpiled 88,000 tons of salt to keep its 294-mile system of five roadways clear and safe for its 1.6 million daily drivers. Information on tollway road conditions is available at www.illinoistollway.com.
“Our highest priority is safety and to protect our customers this winter we will rapidly deploy full crews during severe weather to keep our roads clear and our drivers safe,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José Alvarez. “But we can’t do it alone. We are asking our customers to help us by slowing down and increasing the distance from other vehicles, particularly plows and other emergency vehicles so they have the room they need to safely do their work. Drivers whose cars become disabled should stay with their vehicles and dial *999 for assistance, rather than trying to go for help themselves.”
The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today the continuation of the phased restoration of in-person workforce and limited unemployment services at American Job Centers on an appointment-only basis at additional offices throughout the state. Beginning Tuesday, September 7, in-person appointments will be available at the following locations as part of another step in the phased return to in-person services:
To schedule an appointment at any of these locations, individuals should call via the IDES Scheduling Hotline at 217.558.0401 and request a callback. Appointments must be scheduled a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the appointment time. An appointment may be scheduled for one of the following reasons:
Masks or face coverings are required when entering an office. If a visitor has been experiencing any symptoms or has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 within 14 days prior to their appointment, they will be required to reschedule the appointment.
IDES will continue to reopen additional offices on a phased basis and will announce the availability of phone appointments to further assist claimants.
Claimants are strongly encouraged to use the IDES website to apply and certify for benefits, enroll in direct deposit, change passwords, engage in work search, and connect with an employment services professional, among other services. Claimants can also continue to speak with an IDES expert over the phone, by requesting a callback at 800.244.5631. As a reminder, if a callback is received at an inconvenient time, claimants may reschedule the callback for a specific time with a call center agent.
In March 2022, Perry A. won a $5 Toot’s Treats gift certificate as she had the closest guess with 20,000 corn kernels in the container. There were 16,976 corn kernels in the container. There were 65 guesses.
In February 2022, Marilee K. won a $5 Toot’s Treats gift certificate as she had the closest guess with 777 marshmallows in the container. There were 789 marshmallows in the container. There were 29 guesses.
In January 2022, Laura S. won a $5 Uptown Cafe gift certificate as she had the closest guess with 583 peanuts in the container. There were 571 peanuts in the container. There were 32 guesses.
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NewsBank Hot Topics
April 2022
Current Events
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Europe – Russia/ Ukraine War
TOPIC: The Russian incursion into Ukraine has lasted over a month. Russian troops have apparently retreated from around Kyiv, committing war crime atrocities as they left. Have the invading Russians met any of their military objectives? What cities have suffered the most damage? What alleged war crimes did the Ukrainians discover when they returned to the formally occupied town of Bucha?
SEARCH TERMS: (Russia OR Ukraine) AND (troops OR invasion OR fighting OR siege) OR “war crimes”
ECONOMICS: Russia – Oil and Gas Payments
TOPIC: Vladimir Putin has signed a new law that mandates that all sales of Russian oil or gas must be paid for in rubles through Russian banks. Both France and Germany say this interferes with signed contracts that requires the sales be done in Euros or dollars. Why does Russia want to be paid in its own currency? What relationship do these new requirements have with the sanctions applied to Russia following its invasion of Ukraine?
SEARCH TERMS: Russia AND (oil OR gas) AND (payments OR rubles)
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURE: Oceans – Carbon Sinking
TOPIC: Australian scientists have discovered a microbe that extrudes a mucus that captures other microbes, feeds on some of them and then expels the carbon-rich discharge which sinks to the bottom of the ocean. It is thought that this process can remove a lot of carbon from the top layers of the ocean and help with climate change. Is this marine microbe found in oceans around the world?
SEARCH TERMS: "marine microbes" AND “climate change” AND carbon
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Costa Rica – Presidential Election
TOPIC: Rodrigo Chaves has defeated Jose Maria Figueres in a runoff election and will be the next president of Cost Rica. He was formerly the nation’s finance minister. What were the major issues raised in this election and how did the candidates differ in their approach to them? What percent of eligible voters actually voted and how might this impact Chaves’ presidency?
SEARCH TERMS: “Costa Rica” AND (“Rodrigo Chaves” OR “Jose Maria Figueres”)
HEALTH: Worldwide – Excess Deaths Counted
TOPIC: Researchers who have collected data from countries around the world feel the number of deaths from Covid-19 have been incorrect. They have been counting the number of excess deaths in countries during the pandemic and comparing them to deaths in the years leading up to the start of the pandemic. Their conclusion is that deaths from Covid-19 have been vastly undercounted. What are the numbers that the researchers came up with, what are the official numbers and how do they differ? What was their methodology for counting and is it valid?
SEARCH TERMS: Covid-19 AND “excess deaths”
PEOPLE: Ukraine – The Role of the President – Volodymyr Zelensky
TOPIC: Volodymyr Zelensky has emerged as a leader through his nightly addresses from his war-torn nation discussing the current situation. His televised appearances speaking to many legislative bodies around the world as he seeks to build up support in the fight against Russia have also shown his leadership skills. Why did people worry about the fact that Zelensky was Ukraine’s leader before the Russian invasion? What in his past jobs may have actually given him a step up as a communicator?
SEARCH TERMS: “Volodymyr Zelensky”
TECHNOLOGY: Artificial Intelligence – Ancient Greek Language Tool
TOPIC: Researchers have trained an artificial intelligence (AI) tool named Ithaca to review incomplete fragments of ancient Greek and to supply missing words. Its success rate is higher than that of trained humans, especially when humans review its work. It can also say where the texts originated and how old they are. How did they decide what texts to train the AI system? How old were the texts and where did they come from? What other ancient languages are ready to be used by this tool? How important is its ability to locate and date fragments?
SEARCH TERMS: “artificial intelligence” AND “ancient Greek”
ECONOMICS: Fed Rate Hike
TOPIC: The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) has approved raising interest rates for the first time in years. What are the reasons the Fed is raising its rates, by how much, and what does it hope to achieve with this rate hike? What future rate hikes have been hinted at by the Fed and why? What has been the response from the business community to the Fed’s announcement?
SEARCH TERMS: “Federal Reserve” AND (“interest rate” OR “interest rates”) AND hike
Business and Economics
BUSINESS: Postal Reform Act
TOPIC: The Postal Reform Act of 2022 is designed to offer financial aid to the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). In what ways would this act aid the USPS financially? What are some other bills (or acts) that have attempted to support finances in recent years and why have they not passed?
SEARCH TERMS: “Postal Reform Act” AND (“postal service” OR USPS)
BUSINESS: Amazon Union Votes
TOPIC: Amazon warehouse workers in Bessemer, Alabama have voted to reject unionization while on Staten Island, New York City, Amazon workers voted in favor of unionization. What is being investigated in the Alabama vote and why? What were the specific conditions and perspectives for each location that can help people understand the reasoning behind their decisions?
SEARCH TERMS: Amazon AND union AND (vote OR voting) AND (Alabama OR “Staten Island”
BUSINESS: Great Britain – P&O Lines
TOPIC: The P&O Ferries told its employees an important announcement was coming. They then laid off all 800 employees, hoping to replace them with lower cost workers using a third-party crew provider. How did the company justify this action? What has been the response of the British government to it?
SEARCH TERMS: “P&O Ferries” AND “crew provider”
ECONOMICS: Russia – Oil and Gas Payments
TOPIC: Vladimir Putin has signed a new law that mandates that all sales of Russian oil or gas must be paid for in rubles through Russian banks. Both France and Germany say this interferes with signed contracts that requires the sales be done in Euros or dollars. Why does Russia want to be paid in its own currency? What relationship do these new requirements have with the sanctions applied to Russia following its invasion of Ukraine?
SEARCH TERMS: Russia AND (oil OR gas) AND (payments OR rubles)
ECONOMICS: Fed Rate Hike
TOPIC: The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) has approved raising interest rates for the first time in years. What are the reasons the Fed is raising its rates, by how much, and what does it hope to achieve with this rate hike? What future rate hikes have been hinted at by the Fed and why? What has been the response from the business community to the Fed’s announcement?
SEARCH TERMS: “Federal Reserve” AND (“interest rate” OR “interest rates”) AND hike
FINANCE: Equal Pay Day
TOPIC: Equal Pay Day is observed in the U.S. to raise awareness of wage discrimination. How are wage differentials for the same performance level in the same job gathered and studied and what do they reveal? What are some reasons for wage differentials and how is discrimination by gender or race determined? What have been some of the ways wage discrimination has been addressed and what are some further measures that could be taken toward eradicating wage discrimination?
SEARCH TERMS: “Equal Pay Day” OR “wage discrimination”
FINANCE: Argentina – IMF Debt Deal Approved
TOPIC: The Argentinian legislature has approved the negotiated debt relief deal made with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This will let the government refinance its $45 billion debt owed to the IMF. What are the terms of the agreement? What will be its impact on Argentinians? Are there protests against this deal? How long has Argentina been dealing with the IMF?
SEARCH TERMS: Argentina AND (“International Monetary Fund” OR IMF)
Civics, Government and Politics
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Europe – Russia/ Ukraine War
TOPIC: The Russian incursion into Ukraine has lasted over a month. Russian troops have apparently retreated from around Kyiv, committing war crime atrocities as they left. Have the invading Russians met any of their military objectives? What cities have suffered the most damage? What alleged war crimes did the Ukrainians discover when they returned to the formally occupied town of Bucha?
SEARCH TERMS: (Russia OR Ukraine) AND (troops OR invasion OR fighting OR siege) OR “war crimes”
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Costa Rica – Presidential Election
TOPIC: Rodrigo Chaves has defeated Jose Maria Figueres in a runoff election and will be the next president of Cost Rica. He was formerly the nation’s finance minister. What were the major issues raised in this election and how did the candidates differ in their approach to them? What percent of eligible voters actually voted and how might this impact Chaves’ presidency?
SEARCH TERMS: “Costa Rica” AND (“Rodrigo Chaves” OR “Jose Maria Figueres”)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Pakistan – Government Crisis
TOPIC: Pakistan’s Parliament was on the verge of voting on a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan when his party blocked it. Khan dissolved Parliament and called for a new election. The Supreme Court is going to hear arguments about this last action, which Khan’s opponents claim is unconstitutional. Why was a vote of no-confidence called for? What reasons did Khan’s party give for blocking this vote? How did Khan justify dissolving Parliament?
SEARCH TERMS: Pakistan AND (“Imran Khan” AND no-confidence)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Ketanji Brown Jackson
TOPIC: U.S. Federal Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson has been nominated by President Biden to replace retiring U.S. Supreme Court Judge Stephen Breyer. What is Ketanji Brown Jackson’s legal philosophy and how has it been shown in her rulings as a judge on the district court and as a circuit judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals? What is the U.S. Sentencing Commission and what work has Judge Jackson done as a member of it? What are some ways she has distinguished herself at Harvard Law School?
SEARCH TERMS: “Supreme Court” AND (“Ketanji Brown Jackson” OR “Ketanji Jackson”)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Canada – Governmental Deal Made
TOPIC: A deal has been struck to keep Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s party in power until 2025. The New Democratic Party will support the Liberal Party. Why does Trudeau need the help of the NDP? What is the NDP getting in return for this support?
SEARCH TERMS: Canada AND “New Democratic Party” AND “Liberal Party” AND (deal OR agreement)
HISTORY: California Slavery Reparations
TOPIC: California, the first state in the U.S. to hold a task force on reparations for slavery, has announced it is limiting qualifications just to African Americans who have lineage back to the 19th Century. What is the reasoning behind this qualification and what has been the reaction? What are some of the key findings of this California task force? What are some cities and universities that have taken up the cause of reparations and what have been their findings and policies?
SEARCH TERMS: reparations AND (slaves OR slavery) AND California
HISTORY: Antarctica – Shackleton’s Endurance Found
TOPIC: One of the great stories of survival and of Antarctic exploration is that of Ernest Shackleton’s expedition. His ship Endurance was caught in the ice and eventually crushed. Shackleton was able to get his crew off the ice and back to London with minimal loss of life. Recently the shipwreck of the Endurance was found in remarkably preserved condition. Who was looking for the wreck? Where did they find it? How deep was it? How did Shackleton get his crew from Antarctica, how did he find help to rescue them and how long did this process take?
SEARCH TERMS: Shackleton AND Endurance
Social Issues
CRIME AND LAW: Lynching Becomes a Federal Crime
TOPIC: President Biden has signed a bill that makes lynching a federal crime. What is lynching and what is the history of it in the United States? Who was the bill named for and what were the circumstances of his murder?
SEARCH TERMS: lynching AND “federal crime” AND “Emmett Till”
CRIME AND LAW: Russia – WNBA Star Detained
TOPIC: WNBA star Brittney Griner has been detained after allegedly being found with vape cartridges that contained hash oil when returning to Russia to rejoin the team she plays for. A court has extended her detention until May 10. Why do WNBA stars play for international teams? Has Griner been seen by anyone from the U.S. Embassy? What do other WNBA players think about her arrest? Have the other WNBA players who were playing in Russia been able to return to the US?
SEARCH TERMS: “Brittney Griner”
EDUCATION: Minneapolis Teacher Strike
TOPIC: A tentative agreement has been reached to end a teacher strike in one of Minneapolis’s school districts. What were the teachers asking for and what agreement was made? How are the issues of the Minneapolis teacher strike common with concerns that other school districts around the country face and what are some other examples of teachers taking action on these concerns?
SEARCH TERMS: Minneapolis AND (teacher OR teachers) AND strike AND agreement
EDUCATION: Canada – For Residential Schools, a Papal Apology
TOPIC: Pope Francis met with a delegation of Canadian Indigenous peoples and apologized for the church’s role in the residential school system that destroyed many young lives. What was the residential school system and how long did it exist? What was the thinking behind the system? What was the church’s role in it? Was there something comparable recently found in the United States residential schools for Indigenous peoples?
SEARCH TERMS: “Pope Francis” AND “residential schools”
RELIGION: Australia – Hillsong Church Founder Resigns
TOPIC: Hillsong Church’s founder Brian Houston has resigned as global senior pastor following an investigation into allegation of two episodes of inappropriate conduct in the past decade. The investigation raised serious concerns about his conduct. How did the Hillsong Church go from being founded in Australia to spreading to 25 countries with over 150,000 attendees? What other controversies has the church been involved in over the years? How was news of his resignation been received by church members?
SEARCH TERMS: “Hillsong Church” AND “Brian Houston”
RELIGION: U.S. Churches Reopening
TOPIC: The number of churches that have reopened for services are now approaching pre-pandemic levels. What are some examples of church services that are open but are retaining some COVID precautions? What are some ways in which congregations benefit from in-person church services that are not available during online services?
SEARCH TERMS: (churches NEAR10 (reopen OR reopening)) AND (COVID OR pandemic OR “COVID-19” OR omicron)
SOCIAL RELATIONS: “Don’t Say Gay” Florida Law
TOPIC: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law HB 1557 named the Parental Rights in Education which is commonly referred to as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill due to its ban on teachers discussing LGBTQ issues with students from kindergarten to 3rd grade. What are the specifics of this new law and what aspects are specifically being objected to? What are supporters saying about this law and why? What lawsuits have been filed against this new law and what is the case the plaintiffs are making?
SEARCH TERMS: Florida AND (“Don’t Say Gay” OR “HB 1557”)
SOCIAL RELATIONS: Australia – Massacres Map
TOPIC: Newcastle University is home to the Colonial Frontier Massacres in Australia 1788-1930 project, which is mapping massacres of Aboriginals and settlers that occurred as white colonialists moved across Australia. They have added 100 more actions that result in the death of six or more people. What are some of the notable massacres that are widely known? What are some of the incidents that have been recently added to their map? Who was responsible for many of the massacres of Aboriginals?
SEARCH TERMS: “Colonial Frontier Massacres in Australia 1788-1930”
Science, Technology and Health
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURE: Oceans – Carbon Sinking
TOPIC: Australian scientists have discovered a microbe that extrudes a mucus that captures other microbes, feeds on some of them and then expels the carbon-rich discharge which sinks to the bottom of the ocean. It is thought that this process can remove a lot of carbon from the top layers of the ocean and help with climate change. Is this marine microbe found in oceans around the world?
SEARCH TERMS: "marine microbes" AND “climate change” AND carbon
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURE: Designer Mosquitoes
TOPIC: The U.S. EPA has approved a controversial experiment that releases genetically-engineered mosquitoes in Florida and California to combat certain diseases. Which diseases are being targeted, how were these mosquitoes engineered, and how are these modified mosquitoes expected to help? What are critics of this experiment concerned about?
SEARCH TERMS: ("genetically modified" OR "genetically engineered") AND (mosquitos OR mosquitoes) AND (Florida OR California)
HEALTH: Worldwide – Excess Deaths Counted
TOPIC: Researchers who have collected data from countries around the world feel the number of deaths from Covid-19 have been incorrect. They have been counting the number of excess deaths in countries during the pandemic and comparing them to deaths in the years leading up to the start of the pandemic. Their conclusion is that deaths from Covid-19 have been vastly undercounted. What are the numbers that the researchers came up with, what are the official numbers and how do they differ? What was their methodology for counting and is it valid?
SEARCH TERMS: Covid-19 AND “excess deaths”
HEALTH: Bill to Prepare for Next Pandemic
TOPIC: A bill in the U.S. Congress called the PREVENT Pandemics Act is aimed at analyzing the response to the COVID pandemic and strives to develop a plan to be better prepared for any future pandemics. What are the key provisions in this bill? What Senate committee worked on this bill, for how long and who headed the committee?
SEARCH TERMS: “PREVENT Pandemics Act”
HEALTH: South Africa – Tuberculosis
TOPIC: One of the side effects of the Covid-19 pandemic is that testing for and treating of tuberculosis (TB) fell by the wayside in South Africa and other countries. Because tuberculosis presents symptoms similar to Covid-19 and because testing for Covid-19 did not exclude tuberculosis, it is thought that case rates of tuberculosis may soon be exploding. Is tuberculosis more infectious than Covid-19? What symptoms are similar between the two diseases? How widespread is TB worldwide and should other countries be concerned that they will also see case rates rise?
SEARCH TERMS: “South Africa” AND (tuberculosis OR TB)
SCIENCE: Human Genome Fully Decoded
TOPIC: A team of scientists have finished sequencing the entire human genome for the first time, revealing important new information about the map of human DNA. What is the human genome, how much of the sequencing has been done for a couple decades and why did it take so long to finish? What is the purpose and benefit of this work, what has been discovered and what opportunities does this create for understanding human beings better?
SEARCH TERMS: "human genome” AND sequencing
SCIENCE: China – Ochre Processing Site Discovered
TOPIC: Scientists have discovered a site for processing ochre into pigments at Xiamabei that date to 40,000 years ago. There were stone tools and other artifacts at the site. Who do they think lived at the site? What do they think was the role ochre played in their society?
SEARCH TERMS: China AND ochre AND pigment AND 40,000
TECHNOLOGY: Artificial Intelligence – Ancient Greek Language Tool
TOPIC: Researchers have trained an artificial intelligence (AI) tool named Ithaca to review incomplete fragments of ancient Greek and to supply missing words. Its success rate is higher than that of trained humans, especially when humans review its work. It can also say where the texts originated and how old they are. How did they decide what texts to train the AI system? How old were the texts and where did they come from? What other ancient languages are ready to be used by this tool? How important is its ability to locate and date fragments?
SEARCH TERMS: “artificial intelligence” AND “ancient Greek”
TECHNOLOGY: FBI Reports High Internet Crimes
TOPIC: The FBI has released its annual Internet Crime Report for 2021. How much money did people lose to Internet crime in 2021? What were the prevailing Internet scams in 2021, how do they work and how can people protect themselves from internet crimes?
SEARCH TERMS: FBI AND “Internet Crime Report” AND 2021
Sports
SPORTS: MLB Lockout
TOPIC: Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association have reached an agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that has ended a lockout. What were the disagreements between the MLB and the Players Association and how does the new CBA address them? What was the impact of the lockout on the baseball season and how is that being addressed?
SEARCH TERMS: baseball AND lockout AND (agreement OR CBA) AND MLB AND (“Players Association” OR “Players Assn” OR MLBPA)
SPORTS: March Madness
TOPIC: The NCAA Division 1 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments, otherwise known as March Madness have showcased the best of the U.S. college basketball teams competing for the national championship title. How are the March Madness games organized and how do fans try to predict who will fill the “brackets”? When was this tournament created and how has it evolved over the years? What teams made it to the finals and what was notable about these teams? What was the outcome of the final games? What were the “Cinderella” stories in this year’s tournament?
SEARCH TERMS: "March Madness AND basketball AND NCAA AND (tournament OR brackets OR teams)
SPORTS: Australia – Ash Barty Retires
TOPIC: World number one Australian Ashleigh Barty has retired from tennis at the age of twenty-five. She was the winner of this year’s Australian Open. What were her reasons for retiring? What other majors had she won? How long was she ranked number one and who has moved into that spot following her retirement?
SEARCH TERMS: “Ashleigh Barty” or “Ash Barty”
SPORTS: Lia Thomas Wins College Swimming Championship
TOPIC: Swimmer Lia Thomas of the University of Pennsylvania has won the 500-yard freestyle championship, becoming the first openly transgender woman to win an NCAA Division 1 national championship in any sport. What were the high points of her swimming career before this win? When did she come out as transgender and what was the process of her transitioning from competing on the men’s team to competing on the women’s team?
SEARCH TERMS: (Trans OR Transgender) AND “Lia Thomas” AND (swimming OR swimmer)
SPORTS: Australia – Shane Warne
TOPIC: Shane Warne was an Australian cricketeer. He led the Australian national team into multiple test matches and prevailed in many of them and is widely regarded as one of the best players of all time. What was his record against Australia’s greatest rival Britain? What was his career after he retired as a player? What were some of controversies he encountered off the playing field?
SEARCH TERMS: “Shane Warne”
Arts and Literature
FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Whitney Biennial
TOPIC: This year’s annual Whitney Biennial in New York City offers a disturbing picture of life in the United States. What are some examples of the artwork being exhibited and what are the messages in the art? Who are the major artists being exhibited and what are the aspects of their work that have made them successful?
SEARCH TERMS: “Whitney Biennial” AND (“New York” OR NYC)
FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Burkina Faso – Pritzker Prize Winner
TOPIC: Architect Francis Kere, who was born in Burkina Faso and who has worked all over Africa, has become the first African and first Black architect to win the Pritzker Prize. He is currently working in Munich. What is notable about the buildings he designed and built in Africa? What are some of the buildings for which he is known?
SEARCH TERMS: “Francis Kere” AND “Pritzker Prize”
LITERATURE: Worldwide – International Booker Prize Longlist Announced
TOPIC: The thirteen authors and their translators whose novels have been chosen for the longlist of the International Booker Prize have been named. The prize is awarded to both authors and translators. How are these books chosen for the long list? Who are the judges for this prize? What are some of the novels chosen for this honor?
SEARCH TERMS: “International Booker Prize”
LITERATURE: The Candy House
TOPIC: American novelist Jennifer Egan’s latest novel is called The Candy House and is a sequel to her popular A Visit from the Goon Squad. What is The Candy House about and how does it relate to A Visit from the Good Squad? What are some qualities in her writing that critics and fans like and in what ways are these traits reflected in The Candy House?
SEARCH TERMS: “Jennifer Egan” AND “Candy House”
MOVIES AND TELEVISION: The Academy Awards
TOPIC: The film CODA was the big winner at this year’s Academy Awards (Oscars). What is CODA about and how did it help open up opportunities for actors and create a pioneering Oscar win? What were some other big winners this year and what were the qualities of the work that impressed the voters?
SEARCH TERMS: (“Academy Awards” OR Oscars) AND CODA
MOVIES AND TELEVISION: Australia – Neighbours Will End Soon
TOPIC: The Australian soap opera Neighbours will cease production in June after losing its funding from Great Britain’s Channel Five. It has run nearly thirty-seven years and has launched the careers of many Australian actors, including Margot Robbie, Kylie Minogue, and Guy Pearce. Channel Five’s decision to stop showing the show this coming August is what ended it. Where was the show located and where was it filmed? How long was Channel Five been involved in funding the show?
SEARCH TERMS: “Neighbours’’ AND “soap opera”
MUSIC: Great Britain – Josephine Veasey
TOPIC: Josephine Veasey was a mezzo-soprano star of the Royal Opera. She first sang at the Covent Garden Opera House in 1949. What were some of her major roles? Which conductors did she work with? How successful was her international career?
SEARCH TERMS: “Josephine Veasey”
MUSIC: ACM Awards
TOPIC: The 57th Academy of Country Music Awards saw Miranda Lambert win entertainer of the year and Moran Wallen win album of the year for Dangerous: The Double Album. What works did Lambert win for and what were the qualities that impressed the judges? What are the qualities that impressed the judges in Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album? What other winners had impressive showings in multiple categories and what are the qualities in their music that impressed the judges?
SEARCH TERMS: (“Academy of Country Music Awards” OR ACM) AND “Miranda Lambert” AND “Moran Wallen”
MUSIC: Grammy Awards
TOPIC: Walking away with five trophies, singer songwriter Jon Batiste was the big winner at this year’s Grammy Awards. What works was he rewarded for and what were the qualities that impressed the critics? Who were some of the other major winners this year and what impressed the critics about their work?
SEARCH TERMS: “Grammy Awards” AND “Jon Batiste”
PERFORMING ARTS: Russia/Netherlands – A Ballet Dancer Relocates
TOPIC: Olga Smirnova has quit the Bolshoi Ballet in protest of the invasion of Ukraine and will join the Dutch National Ballet. There she will join the Brazilian dancer Victor Caixeta, who has left St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Ballet for the same reason. Smirnova has a Ukrainian grandfather. How prestigious are the two ballet companies that they are leaving? What ballet will they perform first at the Dutch National Ballet? How well regarded are these two dancers? Have other dancers left the two Russian companies?
SEARCH TERMS: “Olga Smirnova” OR (“Bolshoi Ballet” OR “Mariinsky Ballet”)
PERFORMING ARTS: I Agree to the Terms
TOPIC: A livestreamed cross-media production called “I Agree to the Terms” by University of California-Santa Cruz professor Marianne Weems and the university’s media ensemble called The Builders Association is getting positive attention. What is this production about and who else is involved? How does the audience participate in the online performance?
SEARCH TERMS: "I Agree to the Terms” AND Weems AND “Builders Association”
People
PEOPLE: Ukraine – The Role of the President – Volodymyr Zelensky
TOPIC: Volodymyr Zelensky has emerged as a leader through his nightly addresses from his war-torn nation discussing the current situation. His televised appearances speaking to many legislative bodies around the world as he seeks to build up support in the fight against Russia have also shown his leadership skills. Why did people worry about the fact that Zelensky was Ukraine’s leader before the Russian invasion? What in his past jobs may have actually given him a step up as a communicator?
SEARCH TERMS: “Volodymyr Zelensky”
PEOPLE: Madeleine Albright
TOPIC: Madeleine Albright was the first woman to serve as the U.S. Secretary of State. Which U.S. president did she serve under and what were her major accomplishments? What years did she serve on the U.S. National Security Council, what was her role there and what were some of her accomplishments? What were her main accomplishments as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations?
SEARCH TERMS: “Madeleine Albright” AND “Secretary of State”
PEOPLE: William Holden
TOPIC: William Holden was a distinguished American actor whose successful career spanned the 20th Century, appearing in classic films such as Sunset Boulevard, Bridge Over the River Kwai, Stalag 17 and Network. What kind of roles was he known for and what did he bring to them? What was his work for Lux Radio Theatre and Lux Video Theatre?
SEARCH TERMS: “William Holden” AND (film OR Reagan OR movies)
PEOPLE: Great Britain – Return of a Hostage
TOPIC: Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe spent six years in an Iranian jail until Great Britain, among other things, paid a 400 million pounds debt it owed Iran. Another British-Iranian Anoosheh Ashoori was released and accompanied Zaqhari-Ratcliffe back to Great Britain. What charges were made against Zaghari-Ratcliffe abd Ashoori? What were the conditions of their imprisonment? Why did negotiating their releases take so long? Who kept Zaqhari-Ratcliffe in the public eye? Which British hostage was not released in this exchange?
SEARCH TERMS: “Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe” AND “Anoosheh Ashoori”
Did you know that reading aloud is the single most important thing you can do to help children achieve academic success?
Early exposure to reading aloud has such a long-term influence on children’s outcomes that pediatricians in the United States are now required to “prescribe” reading to parents of all babies from birth! Reading aloud is in itself extremely beneficial for kids of all ages, but research shows that there are things you can do at home to support early literacy even more as you read. Here are some practical, evidence-based tips for supporting literacy from infancy through school age.
Babies & Toddlers
Include “high contrast” books in the first year. Babies’ developing brains are tasked with processing a lot of information! Since their vision is still developing, baby books with high-contrast art capture their attention most effectively. Gazing at these images allows babies’ brains to rest and helps prevent overstimulation.
Be prepared for unconventional storytimes. It’s normal for babies’ and toddlers’ attention to wander during stories. It’s okay if your toddler is active while you are reading! It’s also fine to skip pages, paraphrase or stop reading a book before you’ve finished.
Choose primarily board books. Board Books are wonderful for babies and toddlers because they withstand mouthing, which is one of the primary ways babies explore their world! The dyes in our books are vegetable-based and non-toxic, so you don’t have to worry when your little one “reads” with their mouth! Board books are also great for tummy time, which is important for building core muscle strength. You can prop them up, which gives babies a focal point.
Make reading times interactive. Books that encourage interaction are fantastic for babies and toddlers. Some interactive books ask children to seek, count or name objects. Other books ask questions for children to answer. And some books ask children to make predictions, or even play peek-a-boo! To make any book more interactive and to keep your toddler’s attention, try using a puppet as you read.
Keep a selection of books within their reach. Allow toddlers to pick their own books when possible by keeping their books stored on shelves or in bins where they can reach them.
Preschoolers
Create regular daily reading times. The #1 thing you can do to foster literacy skills in preschool age children is establish regular home reading routines. Your typical reading time could be at bedtime, at dinner or even in the bath. Of course, you can read at other times too. Establishing a routine ensures that you will make time for reading every day.
Point as you read. Point to pictures of characters and objects as you read about them in the text. This is such a simple thing to do, but it has a big impact. Showing your child the illustrations that correspond to your spoken words helps them make meaning of language and learn new concepts.
Seek out singalong books. Singalongs foster listening skills and help children learn to follow directions, which are both so important for kindergarten readiness. The catchy lyrics and music in our singalongs capture children’s attention and keep them interested for longer than they might be otherwise. Plus, moving along to singalongs helps develop gross motor skills!
Rhyme and repeat! Choose rhyming books and books with repeated text. These types of books give children the chance to “read” along with you! Pause when reading a rhyming story and allow children to complete the rhyme (“There was a mouse who lived in a . . . ”). When reading a book with repeated text, stop to let your child fill in the blanks. Reading along with you gives children confidence as “readers” and helps them build the connection between spoken language and printed words.
Ask open-ended questions when reading. The best kind of questions require children to think about why something happened or predict what might happen next. (“Why do you think the girl is sad?” “What do you think will happen next?”) As a guide, ask questions that start with “what,” “how,” “why” and “when.”
Let them choose! Research shows that literacy outcomes improve if you keep a wide variety of books on hand in your home library and to allow children to choose what they read.
School Age Children
Keep reading aloud, even after they know how to read independently! A child’s reading level doesn’t catch up to their listening level until about age 14. Reading more complex books aloud to older children improves their vocabulary and reading comprehension!
According to research, when children begin to read independently (usually between the ages of 6 and 9), their parents often stop reading aloud to them. Yet, 83% of children between the ages of 6 and 17 said they “loved it” or “liked it a lot” when their parents read aloud to them at home. Their top reason? It's a special time with their parents.
Ask about new words. Pause after reading a new vocabulary word and ask your child what they think that word means. They might be able to guess correctly, based on the context. If they don’t get it right, provide the definition.
Enjoy story collections together. Story anthologies are perfect for reading aloud to your young reader. When you read aloud, you can expose your child to more sophisticated vocabulary and plot lines than they might encounter in books at their own reading level. Read-alouds also naturally lead to discussions about the book, during which time you can check on your child’s comprehension of the story. Many of our story anthologies include an audio version of the story as well.
Opt for high quality chapter books. As parents and educators it is a real challenge to find high-quality chapter books for growing readers. Our chapter books incorporate full-color illustrations throughout. These illustrations provide reading support in the form of context clues, which allows our authors to incorporate more complex vocabulary and concepts.
Illinois Courts recently launched a new product to help connect people to the information they need to represent themselves in a court case. Illinois Court Help is a free service that library staff can recommend to patrons.
Staff and patrons can also access this Illinois Court Help Digital Toolkit for informational materials in English and Spanish. The toolkit contains ready-to-print flyers and posters and a business card librarians can share with patrons, as well as other materials such as social media content.
Poetry Writing Tips from Amanda Gorman
https://storage.googleapis.com/classroom-portal-production/uploads/2021/03/853d18cf-amanda-gorman_poetrytips.pdf?ref=PRH29DE00BF5E64&linkid=PRH29DE00BF5E64&cdi=23CF0FA8BA8D2BF3E0534FD66B0A902E&template_id=20577&aid=randohouseinc36206-20
Our WiFi is accessible from the street in front of the library and does not have a password at this time, so anyone who needs a connection may use it.
We have added many new links for children as they are out of school and adults under the Information tab (under more at the top of the page). There are many companies who are offering free services during the pandemic and that information is on that page or the eBook page where we have added information about eBook resources that you don't need to have a library card to access as well as new links for many great resources! To access our online resources, please see the tabs at the bottom of this page. To find information about the eBook resources our library offers click on the RSA Catalog tab. There is an explantation for each of the online resources at the bottom of this page above the tabs.
As this is an ever changing event, we will continue to monitor the directives provided by federal, state and local governments to ensure the library’s response is proactive and prioritizes public health while balancing the need for public services. Please continue to check the web site for updates. Thank you in advance for understanding as we work to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and we encourage out patrons to take measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 also. We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy during these unprecedented times.
If you have any questions, please feel to call the library at 309-742-2431 or email us at elmwoodlib@gmail.com.
What you can do to help:
Your help is greatly appreciated to help minimize the spread of disease. Here are some simple steps you can take to help.
My Library Is...
NICK OFFERMAN EXPLAINS WHY LIBRARIES ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER
In a new promotional video from the Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS), actor Nick Offerman stars as the Wizard of the World Wide Web, convening an emergency meeting of the elders of the internet.
In the video, avatars representing pop-up ads, social media and other fixtures of online life have assembled at a secret internet headquarters to discuss a grave matter: humans have realized that libraries are even more powerful than the web.
Offerman explains: Libraries have real people. They get to know you and offer reading recommendations more personalized than any algorithm. They can even tell the difference between real and fake news. He continues,“Libraries have all the information that anyone could ever need, plus real spaces, fun educational programs, meet-up groups…you can even get a flu shot at the library.
http://www.ilovelibraries.org/article/nick-offerman-explains-why-libraries-are-more-important-ever?twitter
More information can be found on My Library Is ... for Library Lovers page at https://www.mylibraryis.org/librarylovers. While there, you can take the Library Lovers Quiz!
Reminder
Children under the age of eight must be accompanied by an adult or responsible caregiver at all times while visiting the library. At this time we are not allowing children to visit without their parent(s).
The Morrison and Mary Wiley Library supports the right of all library users to access information and will not deny access to electronic information networks based solely on age. Children under the age of 10 may use the computers when a parent is present. Those over 10 must have a signed Computer Use Policy on file to be able to use the computers
Information about Rosefield Township
genealogytrails.com/ill/peoria/hx/rosefieldtwp.html
Drivers, it's time for "Winter Weather – Get it Together"
Snow-and-ice safety campaign introducing public to "Orange Crush” and “Scoopy Do"
SPRINGFIELD – With the first snowflakes of the season falling in recent days, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and Illinois Tollway are reminding the driving public that now is the ideal time for “Winter Weather – Get it Together.”
“At IDOT, we spend the entire year getting ready for snow-and-ice season. Our top priority is making sure our roads are safe for the motoring public, but we do ask the motoring public to do its part as well and get prepared,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Make sure your vehicle is in a safe, operating condition. Winter weather can change quickly so be prepared to reduce speeds and increase driving distances at all times. And please share the roads with our snow-and-ice teams – don’t crowd the plow.”
Throughout the coming months of cold weather and adverse conditions, motorists should practice basic winter driving skills and build extra time into their schedules. As part of the “Winter Weather – Get it Together” campaign, travelers are encouraged to follow these simple guidelines:
• Bookmark GettingAroundIllinois.com to check travel conditions 24/7. This year’s winter road conditions map will feature more local, more precise reporting information.
• Wear a seat belt. It’s the law in Illinois. And it’s your best defense in a crash.
• Drop it and drive. Put down the mobile devices – it, too, is the law.
• Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary. If you do have to drive, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your route. Familiarize yourself with public transportation options.
• Slow down. Slower speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering and slower braking are required throughout the winter.
• Don’t crowd the plow. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see
them, but they may not see you. Any plow that’s hit is one less resource available to clear the roads.
• Watch out for black ice. A road may appear clear but can be treacherous.
• Be especially careful when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shaded areas. All are prone to icing.
• Prepare an emergency kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit.
• Carry a cell phone and a car charger in case of emergency.
• Give them distance. Obey the Move Over Law by slowing down and changing lanes when approaching ANY stopped vehicle with flashing lights.
“Winter weather causes additional dangers to the men and women of the Illinois State Police on patrol to protect and serve all motorists,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “In snowy and icy conditions, please refrain from driving unless it is essential. If you must get on the road, remember to adjust your driving to the weather and road conditions. Winter road conditions are unpredictable and a crash could happen at any moment. The fewer drivers on the road, the fewer crashes and the safer everyone will be.
“If you approach an emergency vehicle with its lights activated or a disabled vehicle with flashing lights, please slow down and move over. Our goal is to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”
For the upcoming winter, IDOT will have almost 1,800 trucks available for deployment to plow nearly 16,000 miles of roads statewide, the equivalent of driving from New York to Los Angeles and back almost three times. Last year, IDOT spread more than 522,000 tons of salt statewide. This winter, salt domes throughout the state are close to capacity, with more than 445,000 tons on hand, almost twice the weight of the Willis Tower.
Two plows making their debut in the IDOT fleet this winter are Orange Crush and Scoopy Do – the winning entries from the inaugural “Name the Snowplow” contest held at the Illinois State Fair. The names were among 700 entries submitted by visitors to the IDOT tent, with the finalists chosen through a statewide employee contest. The plows will be used primarily in IDOT’s District 6, which encompasses Adams, Brown, Cass, Christian, Hancock, Logan, Macoupin, Mason, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, Pike, Sangamon, Schuyler and Scott counties.
The Illinois Tollway mobilizes a fleet of 196 snowplows during winter storms and this year has stockpiled 88,000 tons of salt to keep its 294-mile system of five roadways clear and safe for its 1.6 million daily drivers. Information on tollway road conditions is available at www.illinoistollway.com.
“Our highest priority is safety and to protect our customers this winter we will rapidly deploy full crews during severe weather to keep our roads clear and our drivers safe,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José Alvarez. “But we can’t do it alone. We are asking our customers to help us by slowing down and increasing the distance from other vehicles, particularly plows and other emergency vehicles so they have the room they need to safely do their work. Drivers whose cars become disabled should stay with their vehicles and dial *999 for assistance, rather than trying to go for help themselves.”
The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today the continuation of the phased restoration of in-person workforce and limited unemployment services at American Job Centers on an appointment-only basis at additional offices throughout the state. Beginning Tuesday, September 7, in-person appointments will be available at the following locations as part of another step in the phased return to in-person services:
- Peoria | 406 Elm Street
To schedule an appointment at any of these locations, individuals should call via the IDES Scheduling Hotline at 217.558.0401 and request a callback. Appointments must be scheduled a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the appointment time. An appointment may be scheduled for one of the following reasons:
- Identity verification for an unemployment insurance claim
- Assistance registering with IllinoisJobLink.com
- Assistance documenting work search activities
- Employment services, including resume and job search guidance
- Request to use the Resource Room to use computers with internet and other resources
Masks or face coverings are required when entering an office. If a visitor has been experiencing any symptoms or has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 within 14 days prior to their appointment, they will be required to reschedule the appointment.
IDES will continue to reopen additional offices on a phased basis and will announce the availability of phone appointments to further assist claimants.
Claimants are strongly encouraged to use the IDES website to apply and certify for benefits, enroll in direct deposit, change passwords, engage in work search, and connect with an employment services professional, among other services. Claimants can also continue to speak with an IDES expert over the phone, by requesting a callback at 800.244.5631. As a reminder, if a callback is received at an inconvenient time, claimants may reschedule the callback for a specific time with a call center agent.
In March 2022, Perry A. won a $5 Toot’s Treats gift certificate as she had the closest guess with 20,000 corn kernels in the container. There were 16,976 corn kernels in the container. There were 65 guesses.
In February 2022, Marilee K. won a $5 Toot’s Treats gift certificate as she had the closest guess with 777 marshmallows in the container. There were 789 marshmallows in the container. There were 29 guesses.
In January 2022, Laura S. won a $5 Uptown Cafe gift certificate as she had the closest guess with 583 peanuts in the container. There were 571 peanuts in the container. There were 32 guesses.
Weekly Prize for Checking Out Contest
We have a contest where we are randomly drawing two winners each week who checked out a book, DVD or magazine the week before to win a gift certificate. Please stop by to see us & if you check out an item you will be entered to win.
March 28 Drew A. $5 Jordan’s Gift Certificate
Hillary C. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
March 21st Nate G. $5 Jordan’s Gift Certificate
Amerika H. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
March 14th Brynn S. $5 Jordan’s Gift Certificate
Joyce H. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
March 7th Aniela N. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
Anna J. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
February 28th Caleb C. $5 Jordan’s Gift Certificate
Chad Wagner $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
February 21st Aniela N. $5 Jordan’s Gift Certificate
Jo Ann S. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
February 14th Jake J. $5 Jordan’s Gift Certificate
Sarah N. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
February 7th Harper E. $5 Jordan’s Gift Certificate
Rachel S. $5 Christ Orchard Gift Certificate
January 31st Sawyer J. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
Bonnie N. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
January 24th Tristan S. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
Cassandra O. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
January 17th Lily M. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
Marilee K. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
January 10th Hallie T. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
Charlotte H. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
January 3rd Joshua L. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
Tina B. $5 Uptown Cafe Gift Certificate
NewsBank Hot Topics
April 2022
Current Events
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Europe – Russia/ Ukraine War
TOPIC: The Russian incursion into Ukraine has lasted over a month. Russian troops have apparently retreated from around Kyiv, committing war crime atrocities as they left. Have the invading Russians met any of their military objectives? What cities have suffered the most damage? What alleged war crimes did the Ukrainians discover when they returned to the formally occupied town of Bucha?
SEARCH TERMS: (Russia OR Ukraine) AND (troops OR invasion OR fighting OR siege) OR “war crimes”
ECONOMICS: Russia – Oil and Gas Payments
TOPIC: Vladimir Putin has signed a new law that mandates that all sales of Russian oil or gas must be paid for in rubles through Russian banks. Both France and Germany say this interferes with signed contracts that requires the sales be done in Euros or dollars. Why does Russia want to be paid in its own currency? What relationship do these new requirements have with the sanctions applied to Russia following its invasion of Ukraine?
SEARCH TERMS: Russia AND (oil OR gas) AND (payments OR rubles)
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURE: Oceans – Carbon Sinking
TOPIC: Australian scientists have discovered a microbe that extrudes a mucus that captures other microbes, feeds on some of them and then expels the carbon-rich discharge which sinks to the bottom of the ocean. It is thought that this process can remove a lot of carbon from the top layers of the ocean and help with climate change. Is this marine microbe found in oceans around the world?
SEARCH TERMS: "marine microbes" AND “climate change” AND carbon
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Costa Rica – Presidential Election
TOPIC: Rodrigo Chaves has defeated Jose Maria Figueres in a runoff election and will be the next president of Cost Rica. He was formerly the nation’s finance minister. What were the major issues raised in this election and how did the candidates differ in their approach to them? What percent of eligible voters actually voted and how might this impact Chaves’ presidency?
SEARCH TERMS: “Costa Rica” AND (“Rodrigo Chaves” OR “Jose Maria Figueres”)
HEALTH: Worldwide – Excess Deaths Counted
TOPIC: Researchers who have collected data from countries around the world feel the number of deaths from Covid-19 have been incorrect. They have been counting the number of excess deaths in countries during the pandemic and comparing them to deaths in the years leading up to the start of the pandemic. Their conclusion is that deaths from Covid-19 have been vastly undercounted. What are the numbers that the researchers came up with, what are the official numbers and how do they differ? What was their methodology for counting and is it valid?
SEARCH TERMS: Covid-19 AND “excess deaths”
PEOPLE: Ukraine – The Role of the President – Volodymyr Zelensky
TOPIC: Volodymyr Zelensky has emerged as a leader through his nightly addresses from his war-torn nation discussing the current situation. His televised appearances speaking to many legislative bodies around the world as he seeks to build up support in the fight against Russia have also shown his leadership skills. Why did people worry about the fact that Zelensky was Ukraine’s leader before the Russian invasion? What in his past jobs may have actually given him a step up as a communicator?
SEARCH TERMS: “Volodymyr Zelensky”
TECHNOLOGY: Artificial Intelligence – Ancient Greek Language Tool
TOPIC: Researchers have trained an artificial intelligence (AI) tool named Ithaca to review incomplete fragments of ancient Greek and to supply missing words. Its success rate is higher than that of trained humans, especially when humans review its work. It can also say where the texts originated and how old they are. How did they decide what texts to train the AI system? How old were the texts and where did they come from? What other ancient languages are ready to be used by this tool? How important is its ability to locate and date fragments?
SEARCH TERMS: “artificial intelligence” AND “ancient Greek”
ECONOMICS: Fed Rate Hike
TOPIC: The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) has approved raising interest rates for the first time in years. What are the reasons the Fed is raising its rates, by how much, and what does it hope to achieve with this rate hike? What future rate hikes have been hinted at by the Fed and why? What has been the response from the business community to the Fed’s announcement?
SEARCH TERMS: “Federal Reserve” AND (“interest rate” OR “interest rates”) AND hike
Business and Economics
BUSINESS: Postal Reform Act
TOPIC: The Postal Reform Act of 2022 is designed to offer financial aid to the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). In what ways would this act aid the USPS financially? What are some other bills (or acts) that have attempted to support finances in recent years and why have they not passed?
SEARCH TERMS: “Postal Reform Act” AND (“postal service” OR USPS)
BUSINESS: Amazon Union Votes
TOPIC: Amazon warehouse workers in Bessemer, Alabama have voted to reject unionization while on Staten Island, New York City, Amazon workers voted in favor of unionization. What is being investigated in the Alabama vote and why? What were the specific conditions and perspectives for each location that can help people understand the reasoning behind their decisions?
SEARCH TERMS: Amazon AND union AND (vote OR voting) AND (Alabama OR “Staten Island”
BUSINESS: Great Britain – P&O Lines
TOPIC: The P&O Ferries told its employees an important announcement was coming. They then laid off all 800 employees, hoping to replace them with lower cost workers using a third-party crew provider. How did the company justify this action? What has been the response of the British government to it?
SEARCH TERMS: “P&O Ferries” AND “crew provider”
ECONOMICS: Russia – Oil and Gas Payments
TOPIC: Vladimir Putin has signed a new law that mandates that all sales of Russian oil or gas must be paid for in rubles through Russian banks. Both France and Germany say this interferes with signed contracts that requires the sales be done in Euros or dollars. Why does Russia want to be paid in its own currency? What relationship do these new requirements have with the sanctions applied to Russia following its invasion of Ukraine?
SEARCH TERMS: Russia AND (oil OR gas) AND (payments OR rubles)
ECONOMICS: Fed Rate Hike
TOPIC: The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) has approved raising interest rates for the first time in years. What are the reasons the Fed is raising its rates, by how much, and what does it hope to achieve with this rate hike? What future rate hikes have been hinted at by the Fed and why? What has been the response from the business community to the Fed’s announcement?
SEARCH TERMS: “Federal Reserve” AND (“interest rate” OR “interest rates”) AND hike
FINANCE: Equal Pay Day
TOPIC: Equal Pay Day is observed in the U.S. to raise awareness of wage discrimination. How are wage differentials for the same performance level in the same job gathered and studied and what do they reveal? What are some reasons for wage differentials and how is discrimination by gender or race determined? What have been some of the ways wage discrimination has been addressed and what are some further measures that could be taken toward eradicating wage discrimination?
SEARCH TERMS: “Equal Pay Day” OR “wage discrimination”
FINANCE: Argentina – IMF Debt Deal Approved
TOPIC: The Argentinian legislature has approved the negotiated debt relief deal made with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This will let the government refinance its $45 billion debt owed to the IMF. What are the terms of the agreement? What will be its impact on Argentinians? Are there protests against this deal? How long has Argentina been dealing with the IMF?
SEARCH TERMS: Argentina AND (“International Monetary Fund” OR IMF)
Civics, Government and Politics
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Europe – Russia/ Ukraine War
TOPIC: The Russian incursion into Ukraine has lasted over a month. Russian troops have apparently retreated from around Kyiv, committing war crime atrocities as they left. Have the invading Russians met any of their military objectives? What cities have suffered the most damage? What alleged war crimes did the Ukrainians discover when they returned to the formally occupied town of Bucha?
SEARCH TERMS: (Russia OR Ukraine) AND (troops OR invasion OR fighting OR siege) OR “war crimes”
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Costa Rica – Presidential Election
TOPIC: Rodrigo Chaves has defeated Jose Maria Figueres in a runoff election and will be the next president of Cost Rica. He was formerly the nation’s finance minister. What were the major issues raised in this election and how did the candidates differ in their approach to them? What percent of eligible voters actually voted and how might this impact Chaves’ presidency?
SEARCH TERMS: “Costa Rica” AND (“Rodrigo Chaves” OR “Jose Maria Figueres”)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Pakistan – Government Crisis
TOPIC: Pakistan’s Parliament was on the verge of voting on a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan when his party blocked it. Khan dissolved Parliament and called for a new election. The Supreme Court is going to hear arguments about this last action, which Khan’s opponents claim is unconstitutional. Why was a vote of no-confidence called for? What reasons did Khan’s party give for blocking this vote? How did Khan justify dissolving Parliament?
SEARCH TERMS: Pakistan AND (“Imran Khan” AND no-confidence)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Ketanji Brown Jackson
TOPIC: U.S. Federal Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson has been nominated by President Biden to replace retiring U.S. Supreme Court Judge Stephen Breyer. What is Ketanji Brown Jackson’s legal philosophy and how has it been shown in her rulings as a judge on the district court and as a circuit judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals? What is the U.S. Sentencing Commission and what work has Judge Jackson done as a member of it? What are some ways she has distinguished herself at Harvard Law School?
SEARCH TERMS: “Supreme Court” AND (“Ketanji Brown Jackson” OR “Ketanji Jackson”)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS: Canada – Governmental Deal Made
TOPIC: A deal has been struck to keep Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s party in power until 2025. The New Democratic Party will support the Liberal Party. Why does Trudeau need the help of the NDP? What is the NDP getting in return for this support?
SEARCH TERMS: Canada AND “New Democratic Party” AND “Liberal Party” AND (deal OR agreement)
HISTORY: California Slavery Reparations
TOPIC: California, the first state in the U.S. to hold a task force on reparations for slavery, has announced it is limiting qualifications just to African Americans who have lineage back to the 19th Century. What is the reasoning behind this qualification and what has been the reaction? What are some of the key findings of this California task force? What are some cities and universities that have taken up the cause of reparations and what have been their findings and policies?
SEARCH TERMS: reparations AND (slaves OR slavery) AND California
HISTORY: Antarctica – Shackleton’s Endurance Found
TOPIC: One of the great stories of survival and of Antarctic exploration is that of Ernest Shackleton’s expedition. His ship Endurance was caught in the ice and eventually crushed. Shackleton was able to get his crew off the ice and back to London with minimal loss of life. Recently the shipwreck of the Endurance was found in remarkably preserved condition. Who was looking for the wreck? Where did they find it? How deep was it? How did Shackleton get his crew from Antarctica, how did he find help to rescue them and how long did this process take?
SEARCH TERMS: Shackleton AND Endurance
Social Issues
CRIME AND LAW: Lynching Becomes a Federal Crime
TOPIC: President Biden has signed a bill that makes lynching a federal crime. What is lynching and what is the history of it in the United States? Who was the bill named for and what were the circumstances of his murder?
SEARCH TERMS: lynching AND “federal crime” AND “Emmett Till”
CRIME AND LAW: Russia – WNBA Star Detained
TOPIC: WNBA star Brittney Griner has been detained after allegedly being found with vape cartridges that contained hash oil when returning to Russia to rejoin the team she plays for. A court has extended her detention until May 10. Why do WNBA stars play for international teams? Has Griner been seen by anyone from the U.S. Embassy? What do other WNBA players think about her arrest? Have the other WNBA players who were playing in Russia been able to return to the US?
SEARCH TERMS: “Brittney Griner”
EDUCATION: Minneapolis Teacher Strike
TOPIC: A tentative agreement has been reached to end a teacher strike in one of Minneapolis’s school districts. What were the teachers asking for and what agreement was made? How are the issues of the Minneapolis teacher strike common with concerns that other school districts around the country face and what are some other examples of teachers taking action on these concerns?
SEARCH TERMS: Minneapolis AND (teacher OR teachers) AND strike AND agreement
EDUCATION: Canada – For Residential Schools, a Papal Apology
TOPIC: Pope Francis met with a delegation of Canadian Indigenous peoples and apologized for the church’s role in the residential school system that destroyed many young lives. What was the residential school system and how long did it exist? What was the thinking behind the system? What was the church’s role in it? Was there something comparable recently found in the United States residential schools for Indigenous peoples?
SEARCH TERMS: “Pope Francis” AND “residential schools”
RELIGION: Australia – Hillsong Church Founder Resigns
TOPIC: Hillsong Church’s founder Brian Houston has resigned as global senior pastor following an investigation into allegation of two episodes of inappropriate conduct in the past decade. The investigation raised serious concerns about his conduct. How did the Hillsong Church go from being founded in Australia to spreading to 25 countries with over 150,000 attendees? What other controversies has the church been involved in over the years? How was news of his resignation been received by church members?
SEARCH TERMS: “Hillsong Church” AND “Brian Houston”
RELIGION: U.S. Churches Reopening
TOPIC: The number of churches that have reopened for services are now approaching pre-pandemic levels. What are some examples of church services that are open but are retaining some COVID precautions? What are some ways in which congregations benefit from in-person church services that are not available during online services?
SEARCH TERMS: (churches NEAR10 (reopen OR reopening)) AND (COVID OR pandemic OR “COVID-19” OR omicron)
SOCIAL RELATIONS: “Don’t Say Gay” Florida Law
TOPIC: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law HB 1557 named the Parental Rights in Education which is commonly referred to as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill due to its ban on teachers discussing LGBTQ issues with students from kindergarten to 3rd grade. What are the specifics of this new law and what aspects are specifically being objected to? What are supporters saying about this law and why? What lawsuits have been filed against this new law and what is the case the plaintiffs are making?
SEARCH TERMS: Florida AND (“Don’t Say Gay” OR “HB 1557”)
SOCIAL RELATIONS: Australia – Massacres Map
TOPIC: Newcastle University is home to the Colonial Frontier Massacres in Australia 1788-1930 project, which is mapping massacres of Aboriginals and settlers that occurred as white colonialists moved across Australia. They have added 100 more actions that result in the death of six or more people. What are some of the notable massacres that are widely known? What are some of the incidents that have been recently added to their map? Who was responsible for many of the massacres of Aboriginals?
SEARCH TERMS: “Colonial Frontier Massacres in Australia 1788-1930”
Science, Technology and Health
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURE: Oceans – Carbon Sinking
TOPIC: Australian scientists have discovered a microbe that extrudes a mucus that captures other microbes, feeds on some of them and then expels the carbon-rich discharge which sinks to the bottom of the ocean. It is thought that this process can remove a lot of carbon from the top layers of the ocean and help with climate change. Is this marine microbe found in oceans around the world?
SEARCH TERMS: "marine microbes" AND “climate change” AND carbon
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURE: Designer Mosquitoes
TOPIC: The U.S. EPA has approved a controversial experiment that releases genetically-engineered mosquitoes in Florida and California to combat certain diseases. Which diseases are being targeted, how were these mosquitoes engineered, and how are these modified mosquitoes expected to help? What are critics of this experiment concerned about?
SEARCH TERMS: ("genetically modified" OR "genetically engineered") AND (mosquitos OR mosquitoes) AND (Florida OR California)
HEALTH: Worldwide – Excess Deaths Counted
TOPIC: Researchers who have collected data from countries around the world feel the number of deaths from Covid-19 have been incorrect. They have been counting the number of excess deaths in countries during the pandemic and comparing them to deaths in the years leading up to the start of the pandemic. Their conclusion is that deaths from Covid-19 have been vastly undercounted. What are the numbers that the researchers came up with, what are the official numbers and how do they differ? What was their methodology for counting and is it valid?
SEARCH TERMS: Covid-19 AND “excess deaths”
HEALTH: Bill to Prepare for Next Pandemic
TOPIC: A bill in the U.S. Congress called the PREVENT Pandemics Act is aimed at analyzing the response to the COVID pandemic and strives to develop a plan to be better prepared for any future pandemics. What are the key provisions in this bill? What Senate committee worked on this bill, for how long and who headed the committee?
SEARCH TERMS: “PREVENT Pandemics Act”
HEALTH: South Africa – Tuberculosis
TOPIC: One of the side effects of the Covid-19 pandemic is that testing for and treating of tuberculosis (TB) fell by the wayside in South Africa and other countries. Because tuberculosis presents symptoms similar to Covid-19 and because testing for Covid-19 did not exclude tuberculosis, it is thought that case rates of tuberculosis may soon be exploding. Is tuberculosis more infectious than Covid-19? What symptoms are similar between the two diseases? How widespread is TB worldwide and should other countries be concerned that they will also see case rates rise?
SEARCH TERMS: “South Africa” AND (tuberculosis OR TB)
SCIENCE: Human Genome Fully Decoded
TOPIC: A team of scientists have finished sequencing the entire human genome for the first time, revealing important new information about the map of human DNA. What is the human genome, how much of the sequencing has been done for a couple decades and why did it take so long to finish? What is the purpose and benefit of this work, what has been discovered and what opportunities does this create for understanding human beings better?
SEARCH TERMS: "human genome” AND sequencing
SCIENCE: China – Ochre Processing Site Discovered
TOPIC: Scientists have discovered a site for processing ochre into pigments at Xiamabei that date to 40,000 years ago. There were stone tools and other artifacts at the site. Who do they think lived at the site? What do they think was the role ochre played in their society?
SEARCH TERMS: China AND ochre AND pigment AND 40,000
TECHNOLOGY: Artificial Intelligence – Ancient Greek Language Tool
TOPIC: Researchers have trained an artificial intelligence (AI) tool named Ithaca to review incomplete fragments of ancient Greek and to supply missing words. Its success rate is higher than that of trained humans, especially when humans review its work. It can also say where the texts originated and how old they are. How did they decide what texts to train the AI system? How old were the texts and where did they come from? What other ancient languages are ready to be used by this tool? How important is its ability to locate and date fragments?
SEARCH TERMS: “artificial intelligence” AND “ancient Greek”
TECHNOLOGY: FBI Reports High Internet Crimes
TOPIC: The FBI has released its annual Internet Crime Report for 2021. How much money did people lose to Internet crime in 2021? What were the prevailing Internet scams in 2021, how do they work and how can people protect themselves from internet crimes?
SEARCH TERMS: FBI AND “Internet Crime Report” AND 2021
Sports
SPORTS: MLB Lockout
TOPIC: Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association have reached an agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that has ended a lockout. What were the disagreements between the MLB and the Players Association and how does the new CBA address them? What was the impact of the lockout on the baseball season and how is that being addressed?
SEARCH TERMS: baseball AND lockout AND (agreement OR CBA) AND MLB AND (“Players Association” OR “Players Assn” OR MLBPA)
SPORTS: March Madness
TOPIC: The NCAA Division 1 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments, otherwise known as March Madness have showcased the best of the U.S. college basketball teams competing for the national championship title. How are the March Madness games organized and how do fans try to predict who will fill the “brackets”? When was this tournament created and how has it evolved over the years? What teams made it to the finals and what was notable about these teams? What was the outcome of the final games? What were the “Cinderella” stories in this year’s tournament?
SEARCH TERMS: "March Madness AND basketball AND NCAA AND (tournament OR brackets OR teams)
SPORTS: Australia – Ash Barty Retires
TOPIC: World number one Australian Ashleigh Barty has retired from tennis at the age of twenty-five. She was the winner of this year’s Australian Open. What were her reasons for retiring? What other majors had she won? How long was she ranked number one and who has moved into that spot following her retirement?
SEARCH TERMS: “Ashleigh Barty” or “Ash Barty”
SPORTS: Lia Thomas Wins College Swimming Championship
TOPIC: Swimmer Lia Thomas of the University of Pennsylvania has won the 500-yard freestyle championship, becoming the first openly transgender woman to win an NCAA Division 1 national championship in any sport. What were the high points of her swimming career before this win? When did she come out as transgender and what was the process of her transitioning from competing on the men’s team to competing on the women’s team?
SEARCH TERMS: (Trans OR Transgender) AND “Lia Thomas” AND (swimming OR swimmer)
SPORTS: Australia – Shane Warne
TOPIC: Shane Warne was an Australian cricketeer. He led the Australian national team into multiple test matches and prevailed in many of them and is widely regarded as one of the best players of all time. What was his record against Australia’s greatest rival Britain? What was his career after he retired as a player? What were some of controversies he encountered off the playing field?
SEARCH TERMS: “Shane Warne”
Arts and Literature
FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Whitney Biennial
TOPIC: This year’s annual Whitney Biennial in New York City offers a disturbing picture of life in the United States. What are some examples of the artwork being exhibited and what are the messages in the art? Who are the major artists being exhibited and what are the aspects of their work that have made them successful?
SEARCH TERMS: “Whitney Biennial” AND (“New York” OR NYC)
FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Burkina Faso – Pritzker Prize Winner
TOPIC: Architect Francis Kere, who was born in Burkina Faso and who has worked all over Africa, has become the first African and first Black architect to win the Pritzker Prize. He is currently working in Munich. What is notable about the buildings he designed and built in Africa? What are some of the buildings for which he is known?
SEARCH TERMS: “Francis Kere” AND “Pritzker Prize”
LITERATURE: Worldwide – International Booker Prize Longlist Announced
TOPIC: The thirteen authors and their translators whose novels have been chosen for the longlist of the International Booker Prize have been named. The prize is awarded to both authors and translators. How are these books chosen for the long list? Who are the judges for this prize? What are some of the novels chosen for this honor?
SEARCH TERMS: “International Booker Prize”
LITERATURE: The Candy House
TOPIC: American novelist Jennifer Egan’s latest novel is called The Candy House and is a sequel to her popular A Visit from the Goon Squad. What is The Candy House about and how does it relate to A Visit from the Good Squad? What are some qualities in her writing that critics and fans like and in what ways are these traits reflected in The Candy House?
SEARCH TERMS: “Jennifer Egan” AND “Candy House”
MOVIES AND TELEVISION: The Academy Awards
TOPIC: The film CODA was the big winner at this year’s Academy Awards (Oscars). What is CODA about and how did it help open up opportunities for actors and create a pioneering Oscar win? What were some other big winners this year and what were the qualities of the work that impressed the voters?
SEARCH TERMS: (“Academy Awards” OR Oscars) AND CODA
MOVIES AND TELEVISION: Australia – Neighbours Will End Soon
TOPIC: The Australian soap opera Neighbours will cease production in June after losing its funding from Great Britain’s Channel Five. It has run nearly thirty-seven years and has launched the careers of many Australian actors, including Margot Robbie, Kylie Minogue, and Guy Pearce. Channel Five’s decision to stop showing the show this coming August is what ended it. Where was the show located and where was it filmed? How long was Channel Five been involved in funding the show?
SEARCH TERMS: “Neighbours’’ AND “soap opera”
MUSIC: Great Britain – Josephine Veasey
TOPIC: Josephine Veasey was a mezzo-soprano star of the Royal Opera. She first sang at the Covent Garden Opera House in 1949. What were some of her major roles? Which conductors did she work with? How successful was her international career?
SEARCH TERMS: “Josephine Veasey”
MUSIC: ACM Awards
TOPIC: The 57th Academy of Country Music Awards saw Miranda Lambert win entertainer of the year and Moran Wallen win album of the year for Dangerous: The Double Album. What works did Lambert win for and what were the qualities that impressed the judges? What are the qualities that impressed the judges in Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album? What other winners had impressive showings in multiple categories and what are the qualities in their music that impressed the judges?
SEARCH TERMS: (“Academy of Country Music Awards” OR ACM) AND “Miranda Lambert” AND “Moran Wallen”
MUSIC: Grammy Awards
TOPIC: Walking away with five trophies, singer songwriter Jon Batiste was the big winner at this year’s Grammy Awards. What works was he rewarded for and what were the qualities that impressed the critics? Who were some of the other major winners this year and what impressed the critics about their work?
SEARCH TERMS: “Grammy Awards” AND “Jon Batiste”
PERFORMING ARTS: Russia/Netherlands – A Ballet Dancer Relocates
TOPIC: Olga Smirnova has quit the Bolshoi Ballet in protest of the invasion of Ukraine and will join the Dutch National Ballet. There she will join the Brazilian dancer Victor Caixeta, who has left St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Ballet for the same reason. Smirnova has a Ukrainian grandfather. How prestigious are the two ballet companies that they are leaving? What ballet will they perform first at the Dutch National Ballet? How well regarded are these two dancers? Have other dancers left the two Russian companies?
SEARCH TERMS: “Olga Smirnova” OR (“Bolshoi Ballet” OR “Mariinsky Ballet”)
PERFORMING ARTS: I Agree to the Terms
TOPIC: A livestreamed cross-media production called “I Agree to the Terms” by University of California-Santa Cruz professor Marianne Weems and the university’s media ensemble called The Builders Association is getting positive attention. What is this production about and who else is involved? How does the audience participate in the online performance?
SEARCH TERMS: "I Agree to the Terms” AND Weems AND “Builders Association”
People
PEOPLE: Ukraine – The Role of the President – Volodymyr Zelensky
TOPIC: Volodymyr Zelensky has emerged as a leader through his nightly addresses from his war-torn nation discussing the current situation. His televised appearances speaking to many legislative bodies around the world as he seeks to build up support in the fight against Russia have also shown his leadership skills. Why did people worry about the fact that Zelensky was Ukraine’s leader before the Russian invasion? What in his past jobs may have actually given him a step up as a communicator?
SEARCH TERMS: “Volodymyr Zelensky”
PEOPLE: Madeleine Albright
TOPIC: Madeleine Albright was the first woman to serve as the U.S. Secretary of State. Which U.S. president did she serve under and what were her major accomplishments? What years did she serve on the U.S. National Security Council, what was her role there and what were some of her accomplishments? What were her main accomplishments as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations?
SEARCH TERMS: “Madeleine Albright” AND “Secretary of State”
PEOPLE: William Holden
TOPIC: William Holden was a distinguished American actor whose successful career spanned the 20th Century, appearing in classic films such as Sunset Boulevard, Bridge Over the River Kwai, Stalag 17 and Network. What kind of roles was he known for and what did he bring to them? What was his work for Lux Radio Theatre and Lux Video Theatre?
SEARCH TERMS: “William Holden” AND (film OR Reagan OR movies)
PEOPLE: Great Britain – Return of a Hostage
TOPIC: Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe spent six years in an Iranian jail until Great Britain, among other things, paid a 400 million pounds debt it owed Iran. Another British-Iranian Anoosheh Ashoori was released and accompanied Zaqhari-Ratcliffe back to Great Britain. What charges were made against Zaghari-Ratcliffe abd Ashoori? What were the conditions of their imprisonment? Why did negotiating their releases take so long? Who kept Zaqhari-Ratcliffe in the public eye? Which British hostage was not released in this exchange?
SEARCH TERMS: “Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe” AND “Anoosheh Ashoori”
Did you know that reading aloud is the single most important thing you can do to help children achieve academic success?
Early exposure to reading aloud has such a long-term influence on children’s outcomes that pediatricians in the United States are now required to “prescribe” reading to parents of all babies from birth! Reading aloud is in itself extremely beneficial for kids of all ages, but research shows that there are things you can do at home to support early literacy even more as you read. Here are some practical, evidence-based tips for supporting literacy from infancy through school age.
Babies & Toddlers
Include “high contrast” books in the first year. Babies’ developing brains are tasked with processing a lot of information! Since their vision is still developing, baby books with high-contrast art capture their attention most effectively. Gazing at these images allows babies’ brains to rest and helps prevent overstimulation.
Be prepared for unconventional storytimes. It’s normal for babies’ and toddlers’ attention to wander during stories. It’s okay if your toddler is active while you are reading! It’s also fine to skip pages, paraphrase or stop reading a book before you’ve finished.
Choose primarily board books. Board Books are wonderful for babies and toddlers because they withstand mouthing, which is one of the primary ways babies explore their world! The dyes in our books are vegetable-based and non-toxic, so you don’t have to worry when your little one “reads” with their mouth! Board books are also great for tummy time, which is important for building core muscle strength. You can prop them up, which gives babies a focal point.
Make reading times interactive. Books that encourage interaction are fantastic for babies and toddlers. Some interactive books ask children to seek, count or name objects. Other books ask questions for children to answer. And some books ask children to make predictions, or even play peek-a-boo! To make any book more interactive and to keep your toddler’s attention, try using a puppet as you read.
Keep a selection of books within their reach. Allow toddlers to pick their own books when possible by keeping their books stored on shelves or in bins where they can reach them.
Preschoolers
Create regular daily reading times. The #1 thing you can do to foster literacy skills in preschool age children is establish regular home reading routines. Your typical reading time could be at bedtime, at dinner or even in the bath. Of course, you can read at other times too. Establishing a routine ensures that you will make time for reading every day.
Point as you read. Point to pictures of characters and objects as you read about them in the text. This is such a simple thing to do, but it has a big impact. Showing your child the illustrations that correspond to your spoken words helps them make meaning of language and learn new concepts.
Seek out singalong books. Singalongs foster listening skills and help children learn to follow directions, which are both so important for kindergarten readiness. The catchy lyrics and music in our singalongs capture children’s attention and keep them interested for longer than they might be otherwise. Plus, moving along to singalongs helps develop gross motor skills!
Rhyme and repeat! Choose rhyming books and books with repeated text. These types of books give children the chance to “read” along with you! Pause when reading a rhyming story and allow children to complete the rhyme (“There was a mouse who lived in a . . . ”). When reading a book with repeated text, stop to let your child fill in the blanks. Reading along with you gives children confidence as “readers” and helps them build the connection between spoken language and printed words.
Ask open-ended questions when reading. The best kind of questions require children to think about why something happened or predict what might happen next. (“Why do you think the girl is sad?” “What do you think will happen next?”) As a guide, ask questions that start with “what,” “how,” “why” and “when.”
Let them choose! Research shows that literacy outcomes improve if you keep a wide variety of books on hand in your home library and to allow children to choose what they read.
School Age Children
Keep reading aloud, even after they know how to read independently! A child’s reading level doesn’t catch up to their listening level until about age 14. Reading more complex books aloud to older children improves their vocabulary and reading comprehension!
According to research, when children begin to read independently (usually between the ages of 6 and 9), their parents often stop reading aloud to them. Yet, 83% of children between the ages of 6 and 17 said they “loved it” or “liked it a lot” when their parents read aloud to them at home. Their top reason? It's a special time with their parents.
Ask about new words. Pause after reading a new vocabulary word and ask your child what they think that word means. They might be able to guess correctly, based on the context. If they don’t get it right, provide the definition.
Enjoy story collections together. Story anthologies are perfect for reading aloud to your young reader. When you read aloud, you can expose your child to more sophisticated vocabulary and plot lines than they might encounter in books at their own reading level. Read-alouds also naturally lead to discussions about the book, during which time you can check on your child’s comprehension of the story. Many of our story anthologies include an audio version of the story as well.
Opt for high quality chapter books. As parents and educators it is a real challenge to find high-quality chapter books for growing readers. Our chapter books incorporate full-color illustrations throughout. These illustrations provide reading support in the form of context clues, which allows our authors to incorporate more complex vocabulary and concepts.
Illinois Courts recently launched a new product to help connect people to the information they need to represent themselves in a court case. Illinois Court Help is a free service that library staff can recommend to patrons.
Staff and patrons can also access this Illinois Court Help Digital Toolkit for informational materials in English and Spanish. The toolkit contains ready-to-print flyers and posters and a business card librarians can share with patrons, as well as other materials such as social media content.
Poetry Writing Tips from Amanda Gorman
https://storage.googleapis.com/classroom-portal-production/uploads/2021/03/853d18cf-amanda-gorman_poetrytips.pdf?ref=PRH29DE00BF5E64&linkid=PRH29DE00BF5E64&cdi=23CF0FA8BA8D2BF3E0534FD66B0A902E&template_id=20577&aid=randohouseinc36206-20
Our WiFi is accessible from the street in front of the library and does not have a password at this time, so anyone who needs a connection may use it.
We have added many new links for children as they are out of school and adults under the Information tab (under more at the top of the page). There are many companies who are offering free services during the pandemic and that information is on that page or the eBook page where we have added information about eBook resources that you don't need to have a library card to access as well as new links for many great resources! To access our online resources, please see the tabs at the bottom of this page. To find information about the eBook resources our library offers click on the RSA Catalog tab. There is an explantation for each of the online resources at the bottom of this page above the tabs.
As this is an ever changing event, we will continue to monitor the directives provided by federal, state and local governments to ensure the library’s response is proactive and prioritizes public health while balancing the need for public services. Please continue to check the web site for updates. Thank you in advance for understanding as we work to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and we encourage out patrons to take measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 also. We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy during these unprecedented times.
If you have any questions, please feel to call the library at 309-742-2431 or email us at elmwoodlib@gmail.com.
What you can do to help:
Your help is greatly appreciated to help minimize the spread of disease. Here are some simple steps you can take to help.
- Wear a face covering your nose and mouth.
- Practice social distancing.
- Wash hands frequently using the World Health Organzation (WHO) video on hand washing. www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PmVJQUCm4E
- Practice good hygiene by regularly disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and avoid touching your face.
- Cover your coughs or sneezes.
- Stay home if you are sick or have sick family members at home.
My Library Is...
NICK OFFERMAN EXPLAINS WHY LIBRARIES ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER
In a new promotional video from the Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS), actor Nick Offerman stars as the Wizard of the World Wide Web, convening an emergency meeting of the elders of the internet.
In the video, avatars representing pop-up ads, social media and other fixtures of online life have assembled at a secret internet headquarters to discuss a grave matter: humans have realized that libraries are even more powerful than the web.
Offerman explains: Libraries have real people. They get to know you and offer reading recommendations more personalized than any algorithm. They can even tell the difference between real and fake news. He continues,“Libraries have all the information that anyone could ever need, plus real spaces, fun educational programs, meet-up groups…you can even get a flu shot at the library.
http://www.ilovelibraries.org/article/nick-offerman-explains-why-libraries-are-more-important-ever?twitter
More information can be found on My Library Is ... for Library Lovers page at https://www.mylibraryis.org/librarylovers. While there, you can take the Library Lovers Quiz!
Reminder
Children under the age of eight must be accompanied by an adult or responsible caregiver at all times while visiting the library. At this time we are not allowing children to visit without their parent(s).
The Morrison and Mary Wiley Library supports the right of all library users to access information and will not deny access to electronic information networks based solely on age. Children under the age of 10 may use the computers when a parent is present. Those over 10 must have a signed Computer Use Policy on file to be able to use the computers